The Lucerne Transport Authority (VBL AG), on behalf of Auto AG Uri, has announced the introduction of a brand-new S 531 DT double-decker bus from Setra on its route connecting Lucerne to Altdorf.
Known as the Tellbus, the vehicle will aid VBL AG to connect the two cantonal capitals at regular intervals during the day, with the service offering a single stop.
The route, which travels through the Seelisberg Tunnel on the A2 motorway, takes roughly 45 minutes for a one-way trip, and is now handled by the S 531 DT, which offers seating for up to 79 passengers.
Featuring safety and driver assistance systems from Daimler Buses, including MirrorCam, the coach is equipped with an Attention Assist System, as well as the ABA 6 system, which utilises a combination of short- and long-range radar sensors and a camera, and is capable of performing automated full braking to a standstill at speeds of up to 60 km/h, even in the presence of pedestrians in front of the vehicle, oncoming traffic, or vehicles traveling in the lane.
Elsewhere, the double-decker bus features a set of two specifically designed areas for people with reduced mobility, as well as multiple monitors to ensure the current destination is visible from every seat. The three-axle bus is powered by a 12.8-litre Mercedes-Benz OM 471 series engine producing 375 kW (510 hp), coupled to the fully automated 8-speed GO 250-8 MPS (Powershift) transmission.
Stefanie Wiederkehr, Head of Offer and Business Development at VBL AG, said:With the familiar reliability of Setra products, we are pleased that we can offer Tellbus passengers a high level of comfort with this new coach as well.
